Office of Legal Policy

In today's world, Office of Legal Policy has become a fundamental element that affects various aspects of our daily lives. Whether on a personal, professional or social level, the importance of Office of Legal Policy cannot be underestimated. From its impacts on health and well-being to its influence on the economy and environment, Office of Legal Policy plays a crucial role in the way we live and interact with the world around us. Therefore, it is vital to fully understand all aspects related to Office of Legal Policy, in order to make informed decisions and build a sustainable and prosperous future. In this article, we will explore in detail the different aspects of Office of Legal Policy and its relevance in today's society.

United States Department of Justice
Office of Legal Policy
Seal of the United States Department of Justice
Office overview
Formed1981 (1981)
JurisdictionFederal government of the United States
HeadquartersRobert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building
950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, D.C., U.S.
Office executive
Parent departmentU.S. Department of Justice
WebsiteOfficial website

The Office of Legal Policy (OLP) is a division within the United States Department of Justice which describes itself as the "focal point for the development and coordination of Departmental policy." In addition to rendering legal advice to the United States Attorney General and subordinate offices within the Justice Department, it serves as a nexus where major policy decisions within the department can be developed, coordinated, and implemented. The Office is currently led by acting assistant attorney general Susan M. Davies.

History

The Office of Legal Policy (OLP) was established by Attorney General William French Smith in 1981 as the principal department office to plan, develop, and coordinate the implementation of major policy initiatives of high priority to the department and to the Administration, and to assist the President and the Attorney General in the Administration's judicial selection process for Article III judges. OLP devoted considerable efforts to the areas of criminal and civil justice reform, as had some of its predecessor policy offices (among them, the Office of Criminal Justice, the Office of Policy and Planning, and the Office for Improvements in the Administration of Justice). OLP also supervised the work of the Office of Information and Privacy (OIP) with respect to Freedom of Information and Privacy Act matters.

In 1989, the office was renamed as the Office of Policy Development (OPD), and OIP was established as a separate Department component. For a one-year period, OPD was organized as a component of the newly created Office of Policy and Communications, together with the Office of Public Affairs and the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. In 1993, that structure was discontinued and OPD was established again as an independent component.

In May 2001, Attorney General John Ashcroft restored the name of the office as the Office of Legal Policy and confirmed its principal policy role within the department.

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